Tim Cahill and the Socceroos have taken an important step towards qualifying for the 2018 World Cup after defeating the UAE on Tuesday night.

Goals to Jackson Irvine and Matthew Leckie secured the result for the ‘Roos at Allianz Stadium in Sydney to keep pace with the leading pack in the final stages of Asian qualifying.

City forward Tim Cahill entered the game after 71 minutes for Tomi Juric, playing a cameo role off the bench to help secure all three points for Ange Postecoglou’s side.

The Socceroos currently sit in third spot with three matches remaining behind Japan and their next opponent in June, Saudi Arabia.

Cahill will return to Melbourne on Wednesday as he prepares for Saturday night’s clash with Sydney back at Allianz Stadium, kick-off 7.50pm.